Local Area Attractions

Living History Farms

Discover Americans agricultural heritage as you walk through three working farms - each with authentic crops and livestock. Learn how Native Americans began growing crops in Iowa at the 1700 Farm. See how early farmers opened the prairie with oxen at the 1850 Farm. Find out how the horse-power and cast-iron machines revolutionized agriculture at the 1900 Farm. In the 1875 town of Walnut Hill, join in the excitement of a bustling Iowa frontier town with 14 homes, shops and businesses. Visit Living History Farms online for more information.

Bridges of Madison County

Visit the historic covered bridges, popularized by Robert James Waller's novel, "The Bridges of Madison County" and the feature film starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. Roseman Covered Bridge was built in 1883 across the Middle River, southwest of Winterset, Iowa. Visit The Bridges of Madison County online for more information.

John Wayne Birthplace

While in Des Moines, you should check out the birthplace of an American Icon, John Wayne. See where life began for this world famous star. The four-roomed home built in 1880 has been brought back to its appearance of 1907. Here you can reminisce on the 'Duke's' life by viewing the memorabilia and photographs. Visit the gift shop and welcome center, too. The house is open for public tours.

Iowa State Capitol

The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines signifies the prodigious spirit of Iowa. Built between 1871 and 1886, this magnificent building represents, both inside and out one of the nation's finest examples of 19th century architecture. One of the most commanding features of the building is the towering dome constructed of steel and brick and is externally gilded with 23-karat gold leaf. Visit The State Capitol online for more information.

Blank Park Zoo

Plan a trip to the Blank Park Zoo on your visit. Animals from five different continents roam through magnificently landscaped habitats. These simulated habitats feature natural exhibits where visitors can observe over 1,000 different species. For children of all ages, there is also a petting area. A gift shop and snack bar complete the Zoo's attractions. Visit Blank Park Zoo online for more information.

Adventureland

Adventureland Amusement Park contains over 100 rides, shows, and attractions including some of the country's most exciting roller coasters and thrill rides that can challenge the most avid amusement park enthusiasts. There are also plenty of rides for less adventurous guests including great water rides as well as a full complement of children's rides spread throughout the park. But the entertainment doesn't stop with rides - Adventureland presents a full array of shows in the park - from live music to magic to song and dance - there's always something to suit everyone's taste. Simply the most fun you will have all year! Adventureland Park is a smoke free facility. For more information, see the Adventureland Park website.

Aircraft Supermarket/Golden Circle Air

Browse through a large assortment of ultralight and light aircraft, or watch videos of their history. Ride on one of these "little airplanes" over the most picturesque areas of Iowa -- above the beautiful Raccoon River Valley or the Bridges of Madison County. Lessons are also available. Call 515-834-2225 for more information.

Art Center

The Art Center complex is composed of three buildings situated at the entrance to Greenwood Park, an impressive hilltop location for this award-winning design by the internationally known architects, Saarinen, Meier and Pei. It's a fitting structure to house the wonderful collections inside. The works of many famous artists from the 19th and 20th centuries are inspiration for taking one of the many classes offered here from painting to sculpture to photography, papermaking, ceramics and many more. Whether a family workshop or an individual project, there's a great variety to choose from. The Art Center is well known for its neighborhood outreach programs. The Arts after Hours program happens on the first Friday of each month bringing live entertainment to the Art Center. There's also a cash bar and coffee bar. A wide variety of lectures, readings, poetry and films are regularly scheduled at the Center, a gem of culture in the heart of Des Moines. Visit The Art Center online for more information.

Adel

Adel Iowa is a charming, friendly, small town just 7 miles from the KOA. If you're looking for unique shops, friendly service and welcoming hospitality, you'll love it here. For more information on Adel, visit them online at http://discoveradel.com/welcome.

Bass Pro Shop - Altoona

The 145,000-square foot Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Iowa's second, is located at the southeast corner of the I-80 and Hwy 65 by-pass. While you'll find a huge selection of outdoor gear, Bass Pro Shops stores are also part museum, art gallery, antique store, aquarium, education, conservation and entertainment center. The entire store is a tribute to the vast diversity of the Iowa landscape, its history and the culture of its people and, like other Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World stores, takes on the flavor and atmosphere of the region in which it is located. Using more than 3,500 area artifacts, antiques, pictures, mounts and memorabilia, the store becomes a living museum of Iowa's hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor legacies. A company first, bowling like you've never seen it before, will be offered at the Uncle Buck's Fishbowl and Grill. This 15,000 square-foot nautical-themed entity, located within the 145,000-square foot Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store, features a truly unique atmosphere and design geared for family fun and dining. Visit the Bass Pro Shop online for more information.

Bob Feller Hometown Museum

Opened in 1995, it honors Van Meter's native son who set major league records while a pitcher for the Cleveland Indians from 1936 to 1956 and is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Visit The Bob Feller Museum online for more information.

Botanical Center

"The Des Moines Botanical Center is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Iowa, providing educational, recreational, and community resources to thousands. Its goal is to provide botanical displays and educational services for the people of Iowa. It is located on 14 acres along the east bank of the Des Moines River, close to downtown. Roughly 15,000 plants, tropical, sub tropical and desert plants. The center is open all year around 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day). Visit The Botanical Center online for more information.

Brass Armadillo Antique Mall

You can furnish every room in the house, or simply add to your collection when you shop at the Brass Armadillo Antique Mall in Des Moines. More than 450 antique and collectible dealers under one roof! Visit The Brass Armadillo online for more information.

Civic Center

Every year, the Civic Center of Greater Des Moines welcomes a quarter of a million people to enjoy the wonder, the suspense and the joy of live theater. As a member of the League of American Theatres and Producers, Inc., the trade association of Broadway in New York and across the country, the Civic Center takes great pleasure in presenting the highest quality of professional touring theater productions to Central Iowa. Ballet, symphony, Broadway shows and concerts! Visit The Civic Center online for more information.

Crusoe Umbrella

Des Moines Metro Opera

Des Moines Metro Opera was founded in 1973 by Robert L. Larsen for two important purposes: To provide an opportunity for gifted young American singers to perform and to educate Midwestern audiences about opera, something they have limited opportunity to experience. For thirty years, Metro Opera has accomplished this by offering three productions each year during the Summer Festival in June and July. In 1975, the Company began the Apprentice Artist Program for college and post college age singers. In 1987, DMMO created OPERA Iowa. In its short history, this innovative educational troupe has introduced over 460,000 students and adults to opera in Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Japan and China. In October 2000, the Greater Des Moines Partnership awarded Des Moines Metro Opera its Celebrate Business "Best Kept Secret Award". Visit Des Moines Opera online for more information.

Des Moines Playhouse

The Des Moines Playhouse was founded in 1919 by members of the Iowa Press and Authors Club. Although the Little Theatre Movement was causing similar enterprises to spring up across the country, The Playhouse is unique in that it has operated continuously, under various names and in various homes, since its founding. With more than 80 years of uninterrupted service, The Playhouse is among the six oldest continuously-operating community theatres in the U.S. It is also the second largest community theatre in the U.S. Visit The Playhouse online for more information.

Des Moines Symphony

The Des Moines Symphony is a full-service professional orchestra. The orchestra performs seven pairs of classical concerts throughout the season, as well as a pops performance, family concerts, in-school ensemble performances, and its annual Yankee Doodle Pops concert, a free performance on the State Capitol grounds on July 3rd. Established in 1937 as an adjunct of Drake University, the Des Moines Symphony separated completely from Drake University in 1969. In 1979, the Symphony found a home in the newly established Civic Center, and now performs all of its indoor full orchestra concerts there. In 1987, Maestro Joseph Giunta joined the Des Moines Symphony as Music Director and Conductor, and is now celebrating 15 years of conducting the Des Moines Symphony. Visit Des Moines Symphony online for more information.

Des Moines Water Works Park

Biking, jogging, picnicking, fishing and hiking are a few of the activities that park patrons enjoy. Picnic areas, complete with tables and grills, are located in several areas of the park. Large, open areas are available for team sports such as softball, tag football and soccer. Visit Water Works Park online for more information.

Downtown Farmers' Market

"The Downtown Farmers Market is an open-air pedestrian-only market, which spans approximately 13 city blocks. Located in the historic Court Avenue District, it mirrors the history, culture, diversity, and people of Des Moines. Thanks to its committed management and vendors the Downtown Farmers Market has been nationally hailed as one of the best farmers markets in the nations by "Bon Apetit" and Country Living" magazines. Every week we bring fresh fruits, vegetable, home-baked pastries and breads, specialty cheeses and wine, hand crafted apparel and jewelry, together with music, magic and more! Open from May to October (Mother's Day weekend to Halloween weekend). Visit The Downtown Farmers' Market online for more information.

Fort Des Moines

The museum and education center honors the U.S. Armys first officer candidate class for African American men in 1917, and the establishment of the first Womens Army Auxiliary Corps (WAACs) in 1942. Visit The Fort online for more information.

Francesca's House

Fully restored for the film "Bridges of Madison County", the home's exterior and interior remain exactly the same as they were for the shooting of the movie and is open to the public for guided tours throughout the summer months.

Gray's Lake Park

Historic Valley Junction

If you fancy just strolling and browsing, then come down to Historic Valley Junction. Here you'll find over 120 shops! Antiques, art galleries, framing, bakeries, gourmet foods, clothing, floral and bouquets, furniture and home decor, gifts and collectibles, hair and beauty, jewelry, photography, restaurants and bars, specialty stores and more! Fun by day or night! Visit Valley Junction online for more information.

Hoyt Sherman Place

A grand manor home built in 1877 by prominent businessman Hoyt Sherman; the structure is now a museum and performing arts center. The original house and gallery display an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century paintings and elaborately carved 17th century furniture as well as many rare, ancient artifacts. The newly renovated historic theater built in 1923, hosts and impressive array of world renowned musicians, theatrical productions, and local performing arts events. Visit The Sherman Place online for more information.

Iowa Veterans Cemetery

The Iowa Veterans Cemetery (IVC) is the first federally funded construction of a state-owned and operated veterans cemetery in the State of Iowa. The cemetery serves the veteran population throughout the state and around the country, as there is no state residency requirement to be interred in the cemetery. Ultimately, it will provide sufficient burial space for up to 80,000 burials. The cemetery is located 7 miles west of the KOA. Visit online at http://va.iowa.gov/vetcemetery/ .

Iowa Historical Museum

The Iowa Historical Building serves as an exciting place where Iowans and other visitors can experience the past. Housed within the building are the historical museum, historical library and archives, historic preservation offices, and administration offices of the Department of Cultural Affairs, the State Historical Society of Iowa, the Historical Foundation, and the Iowa Arts Council. You can visit state-of-the-art exhibits which allow you to explore the past in a way you many never have before. The interactive exhibits enable you to see, hear, and even touch Iowa's history. Another of the building's attractions is the library and archives, where genealogical and historical researches uncover the past. Visit The State Historical Society online for more information.

Winery - Jasper Winery

Hidden among the rolling hills of Iowa, growing in a swerve towards the sun, are the luscious grapes that have come to a juicy end in a bottle of Jasper wine. Located in Newton, Iowa, (with a NEW store located on the south side of Des Moines!) Jasper Winery produces high-quality wines using grape varieties that thrive in the relatively cold climate of the Midwest. The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Madison County Wine. Check out the wine rack display in their store! Visit http://www.jasperwinery.com/ for more information.

Jordan House Museum

The Jordan House, a stately Victorian home of Italianate Gothic design, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program. It is one of the oldest structures in Polk Country and the oldest in West Des Moines. Built by one of West Des Moines first settlers, James C. Jordan, the house today serves both as a museum for West Des Moines and as the office of West Des Moines Historical Society. The sixteen period rooms serve as a fitting backdrop of displaying the many antique treasures gathered from the rich heritage of West Des Moines. Visitors will also be interested in both the Underground Railroad Exhibit and the many artifacts from the regular railroad which played an important role in the early years of West Des Moines. Visit The Jordan House online for more information.

Madison County Iowa - Discover. Explore. Fall In Love

So Much to See and Do in Madison County Originally boasting 19 covered bridges, six remain today. Five of the six are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridges were covered by order of the County Board of Supervisors to help preserve the large flooring timbers, which were more expensive to replace than the lumber used to cover the bridge sides and roof. Usually, the bridges were named for the resident who lived closest. Visit the birthplace of John Wayne, Monumental Park, North River Stone Schoolhouse, Winterset Art Center, Bevington-Kaser House and Historical Complex, Clark Tower and the Madison County Courthouse. Love quilting? Winterset is home to two world famous quilters! Marianne Fons and Liz Porter, whose company, (and television show) "Fons & Porter Love of Quilting" is based in Winterset. For more information, visit Madison County online.

Madison County Winery Madison County Winery is a startup native Iowa winery with vineyards located in both Madison and Story counties. Both vineyards are now in production and were planted in 2001 and 2000 respectively. Our Madison County site is located just west of St. Charles, IA while the Story County site is located just south of Colo, IA. The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Madison County Wine. Check out the wine rack display in their store! Coming Soon: Plans are in the works to build a one-of-a-kind winery/leisure destination on our Madison County vineyard property. Tucked in the rolling hills of south central Iowa, this site overlooks a picturesque valley. With beautiful vistas in all directions it's the perfect setting to escape, relax, and savor a quality wine. Visit Madison County Winery for additional information.

Majestic Lion Antique Center

The Majestic Lion has been voted Des Moines' #1 antique mall for a reason. With 250 selected dealers in more than 35,000 square feet, the Majestic Lion offers Central Iowa's largest and most exquisite inventory of quality antiques. Merchandise is displayed in a spacious, clean, well lit environment; shopping is easy and relaxed with wide aisles, accessible booths, bright showcases, and all-season, comfort-controlled temperature. A professional sales staff is always available to help you find that special piece of furniture or a particular collectible item of interest. Visit The Majestic Lion online for more information.

National Balloon Museum

Located in Indianola, IA, the National Balloon Museum chronicles more than 200 years of ballooning history. The museums extensive collection includes hundreds of artifacts related to the history and science of hot air balloons, gas balloons and air ships, as well as competitive events through the years, record-setting flights and more. The museum also features a gift shop full of balloon gifts and souvenirs. Visit The National Balloon Museum online for more information.

Pappajohn Sculpture Park

A bright new light on the world's cultural radar appeared when the Pappajohn Sculpture Park opened in downtown Des Moines. The two dozen sculptures that John and Mary Pappajohn gave to the Des Moines Art Center were recently appraised at about $40 million, which is thought to be the largest public gift in Iowa history. But nobody predicted exactly how big. The couple's original gift of 16 major sculptures quickly grew - and the Pappajohns have hinted at plans for more. The project, which is one of the most accessible major-league art parks in the country, changes the look of a two-block area between Grand Avenue and Locust Street in the Western Gateway. The sculpture park is a series of crescent-shaped berms that divide the space into open-air "rooms," each with its own loose theme. There's the minimalist area, with Gary Hume's snowmen and Ellsworth Kelly's tower. And the trio of boulder-sized bronzes by de Kooning, Tony Cragg and William Buckley. And in the figurative, mildly creepy northeast section that some have called the "Harry Potter corner" stand Bourgeois' spider, Judith Shea's ghostly overcoat and Ugo Rondinone's maniacal Mr. Potato Heads, who stare at traffic on Grand Avenue. This is a MUST SEE! For more information, visit Pappajohn Sculpture Park online.

Patriotic Rock

The Patriotic rock, located at the Schildberg Construction - Jefferson Quarry and painted by Ray "Bubba" Sorensen. The rock was a local graffiti rock for twenty years for the surrounding schools. Out of respect, the local students have not defaced the painting in the past five years since Bubba has been painting his tribute. "I love my country, and I do it out of respect for the veterans." Quoted Ray "Bubba" Sorensen. Bubba draws a sketch of his idea on paper and then draws the design by free hand onto the rock. This takes him anywhere from one to three weeks to paint and he has been doing it for five consecutive years. Bubba is interested in military history and gets his ideas from books, movies, previous artwork and images by other artists. The rock is located on Highway 25, just 1 mile south of Interstate-80 near Greenfield, exit 86. Visit Freedom Rock online for more information.

Raccoon River Valley Bike Trail

Bikers will encounter all kinds of wildlife, farm animals and birds along the 56-mile trail. They also will ride through new retail shopping developments in Waukee, past the booming brickyards of Adel and within two blocks of the gorgeous "French castle" Dallas County Courthouse in Adel. Experience several sites of mills and livestock shipping terminals that operated in pioneer times, view beautiful Lake Panorama from the trail just north of Panora and cross a 600-foot-long railroad trestle bridge over the North Raccoon River. Complete the ride in Jefferson and hear the carillon playing atop the 162-foot-tall Mahanay Memorial Tower on the Greene County Courthouse Square. Visit http://www.raccoonrivervalleytrail.org/ for additional information.

Red Barron Choppers

Located 4 miles from the KOA in DeSoto, Iowa, this custom chopper shop is the talk of the town! Stop by the showroom to experience their creations in person. Red Barron Graphics apparel is available. Visit http://redbarronchoppers.com/ for more information.

Salisbury House

Salisbury House is a 42-room mansion located in Des Moines, Iowa. Modeled after the King's House in Salisbury, England, this American Castle is nestled on a ten-acre estate of virgin woodlands in the heart of Iowa's capital city. Iowans Carl and Edith Weeks built Salisbury House between 1923 and 1928. True to the history and design of the King's House, Salisbury House reflects the Tudor, Gothic, and Carolean periods of architecture. The mansion contains authentic 16th century English oak, English flintwork, and rafters that date back to the time of Shakespeare. Salisbury House is filled with the Weeks' original furnishings and collection of rare objects of art, paintings, tapestries, books, and letters. Salisbury House has been called a "national treasure" by the National Trust For Historic Preservation and was featured on the national television series America's Castles on the A & E Cable Network and Home and Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Visit Salisbury House online for more information.

Terrace Hill

Benjamin Franklin Allen, Iowa's first millionaire, built Terrace Hill as his family home. Construction of this 18,000-square-foot home began in 1866 and was completed in 1869. The original cost of $250,000 included the Mansion, Carriage House, all of the furnishings, and approximately 30 acres of land. The house contained very modern features for its time, such as hot and cold running water, gas lights, a lift, and indoor restrooms. Terrace Hill was built on the far-western edge of Des Moines. It was referred to as "The Palace of the Prairie." The population of Des Moines at that time was fewer than 7,000 people. Today, the Greater Des Moines metropolitan area has a population of half a million people, and Terrace Hill is in the heart of the city. While the skyline of Des Moines has changed, the 90-foot tower of Terrace Hill still provides a commanding view of the capital city and its golden-domed Capitol, which was built several years after Terrace Hill. William Boyington, a popular Chicago architect of his time, designed Terrace Hill. Visit Terrace Hill online for more information.

Trainland USA

Trainland U.S.A. is an operating toy train museum, displaying Lionel trains and accessories. This exhibit represents three eras of time; frontier, steam, and diesel. All scenery is hand painted and the entire layout is glass enclosed. Four control panels create an automated train control system with their own telephone communications. There are approximately 60 operating Lionel accessories still in their original state. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Visit Trainland USA online for more information.

Valley Junction Farmer's Market

There are over 150 vendors on display outdoors every Thursday evening, May through September, offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and arts & crafts. Held in conjunction with Music in the Junction which is a free outdoor concert series featuring various local bands. There is a "Refreshment tent" located in the alley directly in front of the stage! Visit www.valleyjunction.com/en/events online for more information.

Shopping Mall - Jordan Creek Town Center

Jordan Creek Town Center A new shopping mall has opened in West Des Moines! Jordan Creek Town Center is a $200 million, 200-acre retail, dining, entertainment, and recreation development. The "shopping district" is a two-level enclosed shopping center featuring a dynamic combination of upscale fashion and lifestyle retailers in a streetscape design. The "lake district" highlights a 3.5 acre lake surrounded by bike trails, pedestrian walkways, and a boardwalk offering waterfront dining, a hotel and amphitheater. The "Village" hosts a collection of large and specialty retailers in an open-air lifestyle design with 120+ stores and dozen of eateries! Just 15 minutes from the KOA! Visit Jordan Creek's website for more information.

Golf - River Valley Golf Course

River Valley Golf Course River Valley Golf Course is open to the public and offers 18 challenging holes, Par 72, overlooking the Raccoon River Valley. Hole #12 is a beautiful Island Green. 7 miles from the KOA in Adel. Visit River Valley Golf online for more information.

Living History Farms

Discover Americans agricultural heritage as you walk through three working farms - each with authentic crops and livestock. Learn how Native Americans began growing crops in Iowa at the 1700 Farm. See how early farmers opened the prairie with oxen at the 1850 Farm. Find out how the horse-power and cast-iron machines revolutionized agriculture at the 1900 Farm. In the 1875 town of Walnut Hill, join in the excitement of a bustling Iowa frontier town with 14 homes, shops and businesses. Visit Living History Farms online for more information.

Shopping Malls

Jordan Creek Town Center A new shopping mall has opened in West Des Moines! Jordan Creek Town Center is a $200 million, 200-acre retail, dining, entertainment, and recreation development. The "shopping district" is a two-level enclosed shopping center featuring a dynamic combination of upscale fashion and lifestyle retailers in a streetscape design. The "lake district" highlights a 3.5 acre lake surrounded by bike trails, pedestrian walkways, and a boardwalk offering waterfront dining, a hotel and amphitheater. The "Village" hosts a collection of large and specialty retailers in an open-air lifestyle design with 120+ stores and dozens of eateries! Just 15 minutes from the KOA! Visit Jordan Creek's website for more information.

Merle Hay Mall With over 100 merchants and a shopper-friendly facility of more than 1.2 million square feet, Merle Hay Mall offers our guests the opportunity to not only shop but to eat, explore, play and so much more. Visit Merle Hay Mall's website for more information.

Valley West Mall There are 135 choices of specialty shops, department stores, restaurants and service stores located in West Des Moines. Visit Valley West Mall's website for more information.

West Glen Town Center This "new urban" town center promotes its chic retail and unique establishments featuring home furnishings, art, wine, clothing, spa services, and more. Visit their website for a complete listing of shops and events! Visit West Glen online.

Discover Adel! Adel, Iowa Adel Historical Museum

The Adel Historical Museum located at 1129 Main Street. This two-story brick building was built in 1857 as the schoolhouse for the Adel community. While known to have been the residence of Leroy Lambert, an early community leader, the building will be remembered by many as Thornton's boarding and rooming house from 1898 until 1943. It is one of Adel's oldest standing buildings. This building is home to many of Adel's historic treasures. See http://discoveradel.com/welcome for more information.

The Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul Depot

Ninth Street - Adjacent to Bike Trail (Hefner, Bergkamp & Braland, P.C.) This early 1900s depot was built to serve the railroad running through Adel until 1952 when the last passenger train ceased service. The railbed is currently the Raccoon River Valley Trail.

The Dallas County Courthouse

An outstanding example of French Chateau architecture, the (fourth) Dallas County Courthouse was built in 1902 at a cost of $109,000 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The interior of the courthouse has undergone a complete restoration and is the corner stone of Adel's Historic District.

The Methodist Episcopal Church

Raccoon Valley State Bank Community House (Eleventh and Main) Constructed in 1862, this was the first church built in Adel. It was used by the congregation for 25 years and later became a private residence. In 1995 the building was renovated by the bank for use by community groups. Interior decor includes a collection of historic photographs of Adel which can be viewed by appointment.

Boyhood Home of Nile Kinnick

219 North Twelfth Street Nile Kinnick was born in Adel on July 9, 1918 to Nile Sr. and Frances Clarke Kinnick. He was a standout athlete at Adel High School and at the University of Iowa where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1939, having scored 107 of the 130 points scored by the Hawkeyes that year. Kinnick was a Navy pilot during World War II and died on June 2, 1943 when his plane went down. In 1972 the University of Iowa football stadium was named in his honor.

George W. Clarke House

207 North Fifteenth Street This residence was the home of George W. Clarke, Iowa Governor from 1913-1917, both before and after his term in office. He practiced law in Adel and maintained his office in the Adel State Bank where he nearly was killed in the famous 1895 robbery (see Adel State Bank). Beginning in 1900 he was elected to four terms in the state house, and in 1913, Governor. Following his public service, Clarke served as Dean of the Drake Law School and practiced law in Des Moines before returning to Adel. The house remains a private residence.

Adel State Bank

107 North Ninth Street (Cameo Rose) This building was the scene of a famous bank robbery in which one robber was killed and six Adel men wounded. George Clarke, later Governor of Iowa, practiced law on the second floor. During the robbery, one of the hold-up men pulled the trigger on Clarke at pointblank range but the gun misfired and the future governor was saved. The incident happened in March, 1895.

Visit West Des Moines, Iowa

If you have a day trip in mind, you are sure to have a comfortable, quality, and enjoyable time in West Des Moines. The entertainment, dining, and shopping options make West Des Moines a great place to visit year-round and the special events are a big draw for people looking to celebrate. Visit the city of West Des Moines online for more information.

Shopping Mall - Merle Hay Mall

Merle Hay Mall With over 100 merchants and a shopper-friendly facility of more than 1.2 million square feet, Merle Hay Mall offers our guests the opportunity to not only shop but to eat, explore, play and so much more. Visit Merle Hay Mall's website for more information.

Golf - Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course

Fun, fast, scenic and inviting - that's Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course. When you're in the mood for a quick nine on a beautiful day, you'll find just what you need at Sugar Creek Municipal Golf Course. Sugar Creek Golf Course includes rolling hills, several wooded areas, numerous water hazards along with a few bunkers to test players of all skill levels. Sugar Creek also boasts some very large bent-grass greens to challenge your short game. The conditioning of the fully irrigated Bluegrass fairways and tees have also been improved in recent years. The practice facility at Sugar Creek has over an acre of tee space to ensure golfers of the finest turf conditions. The practice tee overlooks 5 irrigated target greens at varying distances. The practice putting green at Sugar Creek is one of the largest in the Midwest! Putting, chipping, pitching and sand bunker areas are all clearly marked. There is a pro shop and snack bar on site, with indoor (non-smoking) and outdoor clubhouse seating for your comfort. Well maintained golf carts are always on hand with continuous cart paths from tee to green. Located in Waukee.

Winery - Penoach Vineyard and Winery

As you crest the hill just north of Adel, you'll come across a place where the roots of the past meet the ways of today. That place is Penoach Vineyard & Winery. The 1900-era farmstead nestled into 10 acres of grapevines and is surrounded by gently rolling hills. The barn, originally built in 1917, has been transformed into a relaxing place where you can gather with friends for a sample of Penoach wine and good conversation. At Penoach, they take care of their wine from start to finish. Eight different varieties of grapes are grown just steps from the patio. Visitors can walk through the grape vines and see first-hand the quality of their product. If you are looking for something new to try or want to learn about the wine-making process, they invite you to come and enjoy a sample of wine in a place with the heart of Iowa and the soul of wine country! The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Penoach Wine.. Check out the wine rack display in their camp store! For more information visit http://www.penoach.com/home

Winery - Dale Valley Vineyard

Located in Stuart, Iowa, a 100-year old, one-room school house serves as the tasting room and gift shop for Dale Valley Vineyard and Winery. Sample wines, enjoy a bottle of wine on the deck while relaxing and taking in the spectacular view! The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Dale Valley Wine.. Check out the wine rack display in the camp store! For more information on Dale Valley Vineyard, visit http://dalevalleyvineyard.com/

Winery - Madison County Winery

Madison County Winery is a startup native Iowa winery with vineyards located in both Madison and Story counties. Both vineyards are now in production and were planted in 2001 and 2000 respectively. Our Madison County site is located just west of St. Charles, IA while the Story County site is located just south of Colo, IA. The Des Moines West KOA proudly sells a great selection of Madison County Wine. Check out the wine rack display in their camp store! Visit http://www.madisoncountywinery.com/ for additional information.